UPDATED BF SAFETY GUIDELINES 2026 - PLASTIC FENCING CLOTHING
Following community feedback, the Safety Committee has agreed to revert to the previous edition’s wording, specifically that for plastic and foam fencing, a ‘sleeved’ top should be worn. An explicit requirement for coaches to risk assess any decision to allow short- rather than long-sleeved tops has been added.
The 23rd Edition of the BF Safety Guidelines had introduced a requirement for ‘long-sleeved’ rather than a ‘sleeved’ top for plastic and foam fencing.
Following publication, BF received significant community feedback.
Coaches and schools fed back that they are sometimes faced with situations where fencers’ participation may be reduced if they have to be turned away due to short sleeves. Whether due to school uniform policies or severe hot weather, there are many reasons why it may not be practical to ask participants to always adopt long sleeves in every type of session for every activity involving plastic and foam swords. Coaches told us they already adapt sessions in circumstances where participants are wearing short sleeves to maximise participation whilst keeping everyone safe.
The Safety Committee therefore reviewed the Guidelines in light of the safety data it holds and concluded that the wording will revert to ‘sleeved’ but added, importantly: Coaches are expected to risk assess any decision to allow short sleeves rather than long sleeves, which includes taking into account the participants, supervision levels, and the plastic fencing activity being undertaken.
In addition, the BF Safety Zone has been updated, specifically the Equipment listed by activity.
Safety Guidelines Text
The changes are highlighted in bold:
For fencing with plastic weapons, a long-sleeved top should be worn, and the legs should be covered at least down to within 10cm above knee level. Coaches are expected to risk assess any decision to allow short sleeves rather than long sleeves, which includes taking into account the participants, supervision levels, and the plastic fencing activity being undertaken.
More Information
The BF Safety Zone is designed to assist members and clubs in implementing the BF Safety Guidelines.
The Zone includes:
And further safety information on:
There is also a form on the Safety Zone that welcomes feedback or requests for clarification. Feedback is reviewed by the Safety Committee and members are encouraged to continue to engage in this process to enable the committee to consider and clarify information where necessary.
Further Reminders
As always, the Safety Committee reminds:
a) All fencers that they have a duty of care to each of their opponents.
b) Everyone involved in fencing that all accidents, injuries, medical incidents, and near-misses should be reported using the BF online report form available here.